Archives for July 2004

'Connolly gets a ten percent bump to $1,364,275, but will make around 50-grand if he's sent to Rochester. Connolly must be paid even if there's a lockout since he missed all of last season with a concussion so he'd go down the thruway for sure then. He still would have to clear NHL waivers.'

'The team also reached deals with backup goaltender Mika Noronen and defenseman Rory Fitzpatrick. Both were scheduled for salary arbitration hearings within two weeks. Connolly will make $1.36 million, 10 percent more than last year.'

'Zhitnik is open to playing for the Sabres again, but he says he is seeking at least a four-year contract. He would prefer that his next contract be the last one he signs and added he's confident he could play for another six years.'

'“This group of young players gives our organization a solid core that can grow along side our veterans,” said Buffalo Sabres General Manager Darcy Regier. “We look forward to each of these players contributing to the success of our club in the near future.”'

'University of Minnesota junior Thomas Vanek left Saturday for his homeland of Austria for three weeks still seeking what he considers a fair offer from the Buffalo Sabres. That would be a signing bonus in the $1 million range.'

'The 29-year-old Grier (6-1, 220), appeared in 14 games with Buffalo in 2003-04 recording one goal, 8 assists and a +10 plus/minus rating. His totals for last season were a combined 82 games with nine goals, 20 assists, and 29 points. He made his NHL debut against Buffalo on October 4, 1996, while with the Edmonton Oilers.'